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What changed in Winter Haven over the past year? What does the City see coming next? And how are growth, the economy, state policy and changing community needs shaping the services residents rely on every day?Join the City of Winter Haven for the 2026 State of the City on Thursday, November 5.
Mayor Brian Yates and City Manager T. Michael Stavres and will look back at a year marked by major completed projects and continued community growth, then turn toward the opportunities and challenges shaping Winter Haven’s future.
One of the morning’s highlights will be the premiere of a new documentary created with Black Oak Creative chronicling the more than 10 year journey to redevelop the Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center. The 15-minute documentary tells the story behind the project, the people and persistence that brought it to life, and what the new facility means for our community.
The program will also explore Winter Haven’s continued residential and commercial growth, why commercial investments are important to the long term strength of the community, and the economic pressures affecting local government, businesses, and residents alike.
City leaders will discuss challenges on the horizon, including increasing costs for City projects and services, water availability, affordability pressures within the community, changes in state law and local authority, and how decisions made outside local government can affect the services the City is able to provide locally.
Because State of the City takes place just two days after the November election, the program will also provide a timely look at what the election results mean for Winter Haven and City services, along with other state level issues that may shape local government in the years ahead.
The morning will conclude by looking forward. Through the lens of the City’s six strategic pillars, City leaders will share stories that demonstrate creative and innovative approaches already taking shape in Winter Haven and the opportunities ahead.
Event Details:
Thursday, November 5, 2026
Doors open at 8:00 a.m.
Program begins at 8:30 a.m.
Program concludes at 10:30 a.m.
The Historic Ritz Theatre
Coffee & Pastries Provided
Admission: $5
(If the registration fee would be a barrier to attending, please email [email protected] for assistance.)
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Event venue
451 3rd St NW, Winter Haven, FL, United States, Florida 33881
Tickets
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